DP World Launches Dubai Food District, a Global Trade Hub

Dubai, UAE – January 2026: DP World has officially launched the Dubai Food District, a major expansion and rebranding of the Al Aweer Central Fruit and Vegetable Market. This ambitious project aims to create one of the world’s largest and most advanced food trade centres.

The Dubai Food District will expand in phases, with phase one set to begin in 2027. The expansion will more than double the size of the current market to 29 million square feet, offering a multi-category hub for food trade. The district is designed to strengthen food supply chains, increase trade capacity, and support regional food security.

The new hub will integrate trade, storage, processing, and distribution into a single ecosystem. Facilities will include cold storage, temperature-controlled warehouses, primary and secondary processing units, digital back-office solutions, cash-and-carry options, and a gourmet food hall to serve both businesses and consumers.

Initially announced in July 2024 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the project will expand its offerings beyond fruits and vegetables to include dairy, gourmet foods, staples, and specialty products, positioning Dubai as a global gateway for food trade.

Since opening in 2004, the Al Aweer Market has supported over 2,500 traders, supplying fresh produce across the UAE and the region. The Dubai Food District will preserve Al Aweer’s role in the food ecosystem while enhancing efficiency, diversity, and speed to market, reducing supply chain risks for businesses.

His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said:
"Dubai Food District strengthens Dubai’s leadership in food trade by bringing world-class infrastructure, global connectivity, and advanced logistics together in one location. We’re enabling farmers, producers, and traders to reach new markets faster, more efficiently, and sustainably."

Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director of DP World GCC, added:
"With global food demand rising and supply chains under pressure, Dubai Food District is a critical investment. It will support trade-led innovation and drive long-term economic impact."

The district’s strategic location offers multimodal connectivity, linking producers and traders to over 20 global markets through DP World’s logistics network. The infrastructure is designed to make supply chains agile, secure, and cost-effective, helping businesses of all sizes access new markets.

DP World will present the Dubai Food District at Gulfood 2026, at Gulfood Fresh and Logistics, North Hall 12, stand GG.H2.